Stick precision testing for simpit construction?

[EtherealN]

I've got a selection of sticks and is thinking about modding one to a "proper" cyclic and collective setup, but it would be neat to analyze their precision first. The Cyborg Evo doesn't seem to have much in the way of precision for a collective (though I love it aside from that), and aside from that one I have two Sidewinder 2's and an ancient Wingman. Ideally I would like to be able to really analyze their precision before I go ahead, but aren't sure on how exactly to do that.

 

Another option of course would be to use one of the Sidewinder's stick axis in a mechanical guide rig to control the collective - that should be precise enough.

 

But before I decide on which way to go - any of you simpit-builders around here have any advice on how to arrive at the better option?

[HitchHikingFlatlander]

Start cheap! I bought a Saitek AV8R and modded it into a collective control mainly because of price! The stick was cheap under $40 to take a chance on as for analyzing precision I couldn't tell you. But the precision on my modded AV8R is pretty damn good albeit with a short throw.

[JG14_Smil]

You can load the FOXY TM Cougar stuff. It has an analyzer that shows output pretty well. I can see my other joystick with it.

[EtherealN]

Hahah, thanks. I already opened up the Sidewinder though - I wasn't using it anyhow since I have pretty small hands and the grip on the Sidewinder isn't as comfortable as the adjustable one on my Cyborg Evo. (Even on the "smallest" setting the Cyborg is just barely small enough for my hand. :P ) Thinking about getting some clay or similar material to sculpt a new grip that is exactly fit for my left hand to use on the collective. Also thinking about using the stick's twist-action, sans the centering springs, for a throttle - prepping it for sims of choppers that don't have electronic governors.

 

One of these days I'm also going to head out to the metalware shop and get some steel bars to build a simpit scaffolding with as well - just a rudimentary one to hold seat, stick, collective and allow comfortable placement of screens and such paraphernalia. Not going to go all-out on fully switched simpit as my first project. :P

 

And if I end up breaking it in the process, I have another one. :D

[JG14_Smil]

support your framework at the two ends, leaving the middle section like a bridge. It will transmit vibrations very well this way and feel alive. I came across this when I put together a driving setup that I used in VF1 100% length racing league. Between the FF wheel, subwoofer and my TFS seat, you could feel rumble strips all through the cockpit. My KA-50 cockpit will be the same way. IMHO, I think people mess up supporting their cockpits all around the perimeter. Dead like a log.

[EtherealN]

That's actually an interesting point. Cheers.

[HitchHikingFlatlander]

Yeah and if you add in a Buttkicker gamer mounted to your set-up you'll really feel rumble strips and flak and the "its too late just got blown up explosion"!